Spare Me rack and Mtn Bikes

[Z-Man]

Okay, I couldn't find an answer so here's the question... And I'll update with a picture illustrating my problem shortly.

I just bought a Specialized FSRxc Expert. So far really like it. The only thing I am having trouble with is the Spare Me rack. It's not the rack itself but the set up of the bike that makes it difficult.

Here's the bike:

http://images.google.com/url?q=http://www.thetristore.com/products/fsrxcexpert08.jpg&usg=AFQjCNFC5drNm04DAOwmTxiF7L8bbf76Iw

My Problem lies with where the arms rest that the bike sits on. It would end up resting on the rear shock... Not gonna happen" other wise the cross bar opening isn't wide enough.

Possible Solution: Get the Thule 982 Bike adapter that goes from the neck of the bike to the seat post, and mount to that.

Adapter:
http://www.etrailer.com/Merchant2/graphics/00000001/trs/982.jpg

However, it doesn't feel stable in there and my fears are that it will wabble all over the place etc...

Anyone ever use this thing before? And does the fat end go around the handle bar side or the seat side. Because the smalled end witll not fit around the handle bar collar and the is tight around the seat post. Maybe I need to raise the handle bars just a little...

I appreciate any input!!

[Dustoff '68]

I use a Yakima top tube adapter...works perfectly...designed specifically for bikes with no "top tube"....

[Z-Man]

That's almost exactly the same as the Thule one, from what pictures I found. I guess I'll have add a couple of extra straps and see how it goes... Got a pic or two of how the rig with bike sits on the racK?

[kntr]

I have too much money into my bike to run that rack. I love the T2. Id get a new rack.

[Cruiser]

If you really like that rack I have a haro that I'd be willing to trade even up,, I know,, its a sacrifice but hey,, I'm willing to make it for another jeeper,, just ship your bike to me and I'll ship my pos,, I mean nice bike up to you,,

I'd look for a different rack too,, too nice a bike to run with that rack..

[Z-Man]

Just looked up the T2 - Wow, that's a bit more in price... With my current situation in an apartment building, with limited storage options, I'm not so sure a hitch mount would be the best option for me. When I am not hauling the bike, I'd have to store it in my apartment... Not a big fan of that in my 1 BR 700sq ft abode. lol...

If not spare tire with crossbar mounts, then something like the T2 is for sure going to be my best option. Aside from the T2 hitch mount... Any suggestions as to other Hitch mounts and/or spare mounts?

Oh, and what class is the Hitch on the JK, the one that comes with the Tow Package?

Thanks all, I truly appreciate the help!

[Z-Man]

Anyone try the Saris BAT Rack?

[kntr]

I really love my old T2. I put a drop/extension on so I could fold it up and down. Its the best bike rack I have ever owned. I leave mine on and fold it up when not in use. I can remove it in a few minutes.


http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p277/kanter1/Jeep/DSC01381.jpg

http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p277/kanter1/Jeep/DSC01385.jpg

http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p277/kanter1/Jeep/DSC01386.jpg

http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p277/kanter1/Jeep/DSC01063.jpg

[Z-Man]

Interesting... Truly appreciate you taking the snap shots. The way it looks, if I don't put some sort of extension or drop extension, then no joy in using the folding option. With out the extension, will it fit the 2 bikes? or just one due to clearence.

Thanks again for the pics.

It sure looks like the bike is on there real solid..